Liam Hendriks had his pants down as he spoke in the Boston Red Sox clubhouse. His undershorts were on, but his uniform was down to his knees. He’d just thrown his first bullpen of the year last Wednesday, a momentous step forward for any pitcher returning from Tommy John surgery. Yet, he stood there refusing to treat the occasion as serious or even notable.

“How did your arm feel?” someone asked.

“Attached,” he replied with a grin.

Questions about adrenaline, rehab process, and more were met with deadpan responses and plenty of humor from Hendriks. Despite the seriousness of his journey, the atmosphere was light and filled with laughter.

Liam Hendriks has faced intense physical and mental challenges over the past 20 months but has managed to maintain a sense of humor about it all. (Barry Chin / The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

Liam Hendriks’ career is a tale of resilience and determination. From multiple All-Star Games to overcoming cancer and Tommy John surgery, he has defied the odds time and time again. The road to success wasn’t easy, with 14 teams and six organizations before finding his stride as a closer.

The past 20 months were a rollercoaster of emotions for Hendriks, with rounds of chemotherapy, rehab assignments, and, ultimately, surgery. But he remains optimistic about the future, with his eyes set on returning to the mound stronger than ever.

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Inside the Red Sox trainer’s room with Lucas Giolito and Liam Hendriks

Despite setbacks, Hendriks has remained positive and focused on his recovery. His dedication to the game is unwavering, with a mindset of always pushing past limits.

The road to recovery has been challenging, but Hendriks is determined to come back stronger than ever. With a new elbow and a renewed sense of purpose, he’s ready to face whatever challenges come his way.

Hendriks embodies the spirit of never giving up, no matter the obstacles. From cancer to Tommy John surgery, he’s faced it all with a smile on his face and a fastball in his hand. The Liam Hendriks Experience is a testament to the power of perseverance and the human spirit. Stay tuned for his triumphant return to the mound.

(Top photo of Hendriks in May 2024: Maddie Malhotra / Boston Red Sox/Getty Images)